by Helen Fairley

Teenagers put both themselves and others at risk when they tampered with the sluice gates at Allington Lock.

The vandalism occurred around 11.30pm on Wednesday, September 23, when three or four teenagers climbed on the scaffolding surrounding the gates and tampered with the gate’s mechanism.

PC Richard Baker said: “Thankfully in this case no damage was caused, but what these youths did could have had serious consequences.

"I would warn youngsters against playing in this area, as it presents both a risk of harm to themselves and problems for those on the river.”